Night at the Zoo

Join thousands of 20- and 30-somethings for Night at the Zoo! This adults-only event will let guests experience the zoo's amazing animals and gardens with beer or wine in hand. There will be food for purchase, DJ entertainment, games, giveaways, and more.

A large portion of the proceeds will benefit Lincoln Park Zoo, helping to keep the zoo free and open to all 365 days a year.

Age 21+
6:30–11 p.m.
Early bird tickets start at $10

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is this event taking place? What is accessible? Will I see animals?

Night at the Zoo will take place throughout Lincoln Park Zoo's buildings and grounds; however, the McCormick Bird House, Pritzker Family Children's Zoo, and Farm-in-the-Zoo will not be open. All other outdoor areas and buildings will be open after hours for this event. Please note exhibit openings may change due to animal needs.

We have nearly 200 species at Lincoln Park Zoo. In general, animals tend to be most active around feeding-diurnal species are most active during the day while nocturnal animals are most active at night. But remember, most habitats at the zoo include behind-the-scenes areas, and the animals can choose where to spend their time.

What are the age restrictions for this event?

While the zoo is open and free 365 days a year to guests of all ages during the day, ticketed event age restrictions vary by occasion and ticket type. For this specific event, guests must be 21 years of age or older to attend. You must provide a state-issued ID or passport to show proof of age. No one under this age will be permitted into the event. All guests must have a ticket.

Can I purchase tickets at the door?

If tickets remain available, a limited number of tickets will be for sale at the door. We highly recommend purchasing tickets in advance, though, as there are a limited number of tickets for this event and, historically, this event series sells out quickly! We can’t guarantee tickets will be available at the gates on the day of the event.

I am a zoo member. How can I apply my membership benefits?

For specific events and select ticket types, Lincoln Park Zoo members will receive a discount on their ticket purchase. Make sure to check the event page for details regarding member discounts.
You will need to enter your membership number before you select the number of tickets/ticket types (if more than one option is available) in order for the code to be applied.

To redeem your member discount, please follow the below steps:

Click “REGISTER NOW” at the top of the website.

Click “TICKETS.”

In the top-right-hand corner, select “ENTER PROMOTIONAL CODE.”

Enter the first three digits of your Lincoln Park Zoo membership number.

Select “APPLY CODE.”

Proceed to checkout.

Can tickets be traded, transferred, or refunded. What happens if there is inclement weather?

If you are not able to make it to the event, you are able to give your ticket to a friend or family member. There are no refunds for tickets purchased for special events at the zoo.

All events will be held rain or shine. Please dress accordingly!

How do I enter the event and can I re-enter once checked in?

Guests may enter the zoo at the East Gate on Cannon/Fullerton (the zoo’s parking lot) or the West Gate on Stockton/Webster. Tickets can be scanned on your smartphone or on a printed sheet of paper. Re-entry is not permitted.

What items are prohibited at this event?

Lincoln Park Zoo has a strict policy of restricted items for this event. Bags will be checked by security at the gates. Please make note of the below items that are restricted for this event:

NO OUTSIDE FOOD OR BEVERAGES

No water bottles, beverage containers, cans, or bottles

No folding chairs

No luggage of any kind

No animals (with the exception of service animals)

No coolers (unless medically required)

No illegal substances

No noisemakers or balloons

No segways or motorized scooters

No thermal containers

No weapons

No remote-controlled aircrafts or drones

No items deemed dangerous or inappropriate

WHERE CAN I PARK AND IS PARKING INCLUDED WITH MY TICKET?

Parking is not included in your ticket price. However, paid parking is available. Guests who wish to drive can park in the zoo lot on Cannon Drive. For additional information and pricing, please visit lpzoo.org/plan-your-visit/hours-location-directions. Lincoln Park Zoo is also accessible by public transportation.

Will there be food or beverages for sale at this event?

Yes. Food is available at the following locations: Eadie Levy’s Landmark Café and Bird’s Eye Bar & Grill. All cafes accept cash and credit; however, pop-up bars may be limited to cash only. While we will have several ATMs on site, we encourage you to bring cash for the most efficient experience.